The District contains three major metropolitan areas in San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose; an expanse of suburban and rural area; and more than 300 public companies centered on Silicon Valley.

Nearly 9 million people live, work, and raise their families in the Northern District of California.

In an effort to help protect these individuals, the United States Attorney’s Office prosecutes violations of federal law and represents the United States in civil litigation in the District.

The Assistant United States Attorneys (“AUSAs”) who work in the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecute criminal violations, defend civil lawsuits against the United States, and litigate actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers.

As of March 21, 2023[update] the United States attorney is Ismail Ramsey.